Magnetic Separation Rack with Circumferential Magnets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic separation racks are limited in their ability to efficiently process multiple samples of varying sizes and provide clear visual inspection, as they often rely on magnets on only one side of the test-tube, restricting sample size compatibility and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic separation rack with an array of sample vessel retaining portions, each equipped with at least two circumferentially spaced magnetizing portions and a visible portion for improved visibility, allowing for efficient separation of magnetically labeled particles across a range of sample sizes and orientations, and optionally featuring a pivotable design for enhanced accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If magnets are arranged on only one side of the test-tube, then the device complexity is reduced, but the separation efficiency and sample visibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic separation device is segmented into multiple magnet positions (first magnet on one side, second magnet on the opposite side) that can be independently arranged. This segmentation allows each magnet to contribute to separation efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the test-tube are subjected to different magnetic field conditions. The first magnet creates a magnetic field on one side for particle concentration, while the second magnet creates a magnetic field on the opposite side, providing localized magnetic separation zones that improve overall separation efficiency.
2Productivity
If a rack-like arrangement is used to process multiple samples, then the productivity is improved, but the visual inspection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates transparent or translucent portions that allow visual inspection through the rack structure. This adds a dimensional aspect (transparency) to the rack design, enabling simultaneous batch processing and visual inspection without compromising either function.
3Device complexity
If the rack chamber diameter is fixed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different sample vessel sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic separation device is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate different sample vessel sizes and types. The magnet arrangement and chamber design can handle various diameters and lengths, making the device multi-functional for different applications without requiring complex adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable or flexible elements that allow adaptation to different sample vessel dimensions. This dynamic capability enables the fixed chamber design to accommodate varying sample sizes while maintaining separation efficiency.
4Productivity
If magnets are positioned to maximize separation, then the separation efficiency is improved, but the sample visibility and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic separation system is segmented with magnets positioned at specific locations (first magnet on one side, second magnet on the opposite side) that optimize separation while leaving portions of the test-tube accessible for visual inspection and sample retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates transparent portions and strategic magnet positioning that creates visual access corridors. This allows light to pass through specific regions, enabling visual inspection and easier sample accessibility without compromising the magnetic separation efficiency provided by the magnet arrangement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient separation of magnetically labeled particles from a non-magnetic medium across various sample sizes, improves sample visibility, and allows for easier inspection without removing the samples from the rack, addressing the limitations of prior art.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnetising portions arranged within the body portion such that at least two magnetising portions are circumferentially spaced about each sample vessel retaining portion
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a magnetic separation rack for isolating magnetically labeled particles from a non-magnetic medium comprising a body portion (1) and a foot portion (8). The body portion comprises an array of sample vessel retaining portions (2) and plurality of magnetizing portions (3). Each sample vessel retaining portion comprises at least one visible portion such that when a sample vessel is mounted in a sample vessel retaining portion at least one portion of the sample vessel is visible to a user. The magnetizing portions are arranged within the body portion (1) such that at least two magnetizing portions (3) are circumferentially spaced about each sample vessel retaining portion (2). The foot portion is pivotally coupled to the body portion such that the body portion is operatively tiltable with respect to the foot portion such that each sample vessel retaining portion may retain a sample vessel mounted therein in a tilted position with respect to the vertical. The disclosure further relates to a method of isolating magnetically labeled particles from a non-magnetic medium using the said magnetic separation rack.